Welcome to the Northern Racing College - Centre of Excellence for the Racing Industry

Students who successfully complete the Foundation Course and demonstrate their aptitude and commitment will be found employment in a racing yard and will undertake the Apprenticeship programme. This programme will include an NVQ Level 2 in Racehorse Care together with an Intermediate Technical Certificate and Key Skills at Level 1, which will include Working with Others, Communication and Application of Numbers.

The Apprenticeship is completed largely at the student's place of work, with a member of the Northern Racing College Quality Assurance team visiting every 8 - 10 weeks to complete assessments.

What Does an Apprenticeship Involve?

1. The qualification involves 11 projects of written work, learning and study, collecting evidence of your competency and practical assessments.

The mandatory projects are:

• Watering and Feeding
• Horse Clothing
• Grooming
• Saddlery
• Horse Health
• Horse Care
• Lungeing
• Grassland Management
• Transportation
• Health and Safety in the Workplace
• Maintain Effective Working Relationships

Optional Units:

Racing (Riding)

• Riding a variety of fit racehorses on public roads, in an enclosed arena and in a walk, trot and canter on the training gallop
• Have the correct position in these paces
• Racing, including adhering to racecourse entry procedure, lead horse up and care for horse after racing

Or:

Racing (Specialist Racehorse Care)

• Racing, including adhering to racecourse entry procedure, lead horse up and care for horse after racing
• Assist with the specialist care of racehorses
• Assist with the care of racehorses after exercise

Or:

Breeding

• Breeding, including assisting with teasing and covering
• Maintain simple stud documents
• Give basic assistance towards foaling
• Assist in handling mare and foal

Or:

Equine Rehabilitation

• Receive horses and carry out and initial assessment
• Contribute to the initial rehabilitation plan for horses
• Contribute to the ongoing care of horses

In order to complete the NVQ Level 2 Racehorse Care individuals must achieve all the mandatory units and one group of optional units.

2. An Emergency First Aid Certificate

3. An Intermediate Technical Certificate in Horsecare

The Intermediate Technical Certificate is a multi choice exam testing the underpinning knowledge requirements of the NVQ Level 2.

4. Key Skills

Level 1 Communication (English)

Level 1 Application of Numbers (Maths )

Level 1 Working with Others

We will accredit prior learning wherever possible to reduce Key Skill requirements. Students are required to supply proof of GCSE grades in Maths, English or English Literature within the last five years. Previous Key Skills/Core Skills achievements at the required level, A Levels and some Scottish grades can also count as exemptions.

PLEASE NOTE: You cannot do an NVQ Level 2 alone. To achieve the Apprenticeship, you must complete all the above qualifications, and by joining the programme, you are agreeing to undertake and attempt the whole package.

How will achieving the Apprenticeship benefit my career?

An Apprenticeship is an ideal way to increase your knowledge and completion is a statement that you are practically competent to perform the practical duties listed above. The Apprenticeship also prepares individuals for progression onto the Advanced Apprenticeship.

The NVQ Level 2 is linked to the Grade D racing wage.

Who can register for an Apprenticeship?

Anyone between the age of 16 and 50. Students must already have completed an NVQ Level 1 Racehorse Care OR an equivalent equine qualification OR have relevant occupational experience.

How much will the Apprenticeship cost?

Nothing! This programme is funded by the South Yorkshire Learning and Skills Council. Where students need to attend the Northern Racing College for training, or to sit exams we will provide free accommodation and meals for the duration of the stay.

How To Apply:

To discuss the Apprenticeship and NVQ Level 2 in greater detail please call Sarah Beattie on 01302 861000 Email: sarah.beattie@northernracingcollege.co.uk

To request further information and an application form please click here

NVQ Level 2 Racehorse Care